Minn Kota & Humminbird Level 150 Inflatable PFDs

by Dom Wiseman

December 21, 2017

Lifejackets have come a long way since the early days of bulky cumbersome foam units of old and it seems everyone has some form of new gas activated life jackets in their range. Humminbird and Minn Kota, both well known brands in the boating and fishing scene have added PFDs to their Sounder and electric engine ranges.

These new inflatable life jackets are Level 150 PFDs. Both are manually activated 150N inflatable PFD, approved to AS4758-150. They are a slim, multi-fit design suitable for continuous wear. They do not restrict movement and also include a manual, or oral inflation tube, whistle and 25mm ‘D’ ring attachment point.

Inflation and operation instructions are printed on the 420 denier nylon outer. The inflatable body features a 5mm welded seam. To create a secure bond, heat brought on by radio frequencies soften the polymers in the material allowing them to bond together. There is a heavy duty PVC protective cover over the CO² cylinder and firing mechanism.

A thirty-eight millimetre wide webbing back strap also includes a heavy duty adjustable side release buckle. To ensure maintenance is kept up, an annual service record chart is also printed on the inflation bladder.